Qualcomm Stadium has served San Diego well

Qualcomm Stadium is seen during the San Diego Chargers game against the Indianapolis Colts, October 26, 1997.

Qualcomm Stadium is seen during the San Diego Chargers game against the Indianapolis Colts, October 26, 1997. (U-T)

U-T Letter writers

On Aug. 20, it will be 50 years since the stadium in Mission Valley opened with the Chargers playing the Detroit Lions. In its heyday (1980-2000), the stadium was the busiest stadium facility in the country.

The Padres, Chargers, Aztecs, Holiday Bowl, high school football, vehicle racing, concerts, soccer, conventions, numerous parking lot events, etc., were conducted. The stadium hosted three Super Bowls, two All-Star games and two World Series.

In 2001, thousands came to the parking lot to be a part of the largest human flag after the Sept. 11 attacks. In 2003, the stadium became an evacuation and support center for people impacted by the Cedar fires. These events helped put San Diego on the map.

No matter what the city decides to do with the site, let’s hope that it will serve the people of San Diego as well as Qualcomm Stadium has done for the past 50 years.

Stephen Shushan

Former Assistant Stadium Manager

In 2001, thousands came to the parking lot to be a part of the largest human flag after the Sept. 11 attacks. In 2003, the stadium became an evacuation and support center for people impacted by the Cedar fires. These events helped put San Diego on the map.

No matter what the city decides to do with the site, let’s hope that it will serve the people of San Diego as well as Qualcomm Stadium has done for the past 50 years.